Summer is grilling season, and what better way to celebrate than with some incredibly flavorful grilled chicken recipes? From zesty citrus marinades to smoky spice rubs and globally-inspired flavors, these dishes are designed to make your taste buds sizzle.
Get ready to fire up the grill for some easy, delicious, and satisfying meals perfect for any summer gathering or weeknight dinner..
Table of Contents
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
This cilantro lime grilled chicken is a burst of fresh, zesty flavor that's perfect for summer.
The bright combination of cilantro and lime, often served with a chunky guacamole-style topping, makes for a refreshing and healthy meal.
It's quick to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters..
Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator, to really let those flavors meld.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Greek Marinated Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce
Infuse your chicken with the vibrant, herbaceous flavors of Greece using this simple marinade.
Lemon, olive oil, and classic Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme create a wonderfully aromatic dish.
Paired with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, it's a light yet satisfying meal that tastes like a vacation..
Pro Tip: This versatile marinade also works wonderfully on vegetables, seafood, or even lamb skewers.
Get the Recipe: Greek Marinated Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Imagine tender grilled chicken topped with a fresh, vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic glaze – that's this bruschetta chicken! It’s a delightful Italian-inspired dish that’s both healthy and packed with incredible flavor.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual summer get-together..
Pro Tip: Prepare the tomato topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld even further.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Sweet & Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these sweet and smoky BBQ chicken thighs! Marinated and glazed in a simple, delicious BBQ sauce, these thighs get a perfect char and a sticky, caramelized finish on the grill.
They’re incredibly juicy, quick to cook, and a surefire hit with the whole family..
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, reserve some of the marinade to use as a glaze while the chicken is grilling.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs
Honey Lime Grilled Chicken with Peach & Corn Salad
This recipe is pure summer sunshine on a plate! Juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing is grilled to perfection and served alongside a refreshing salad bursting with grilled corn, sweet peaches, and fresh herbs.
It’s a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and zesty flavors..
Pro Tip: Use slightly underripe peaches for the salad, as they'll hold their shape better when grilled.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lime Grilled Chicken with Peach & Corn Salad
Ultimate Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this hearty grilled chicken Caesar salad.
Juicy, marinated chicken is paired with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and a delightful mix of crunchy textures from crispy chickpeas and Parmesan crisps.
It’s a satisfying main course that’s far from boring..
Pro Tip: For a dramatic presentation, make one large Parmesan crisp to place on top of the finished salad.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Miso Grilled Chicken
Experience a delightful umami-rich flavor with this miso grilled chicken.
Chicken thighs are marinated in a savory-sweet blend of miso paste, soy sauce, and honey, then grilled to a perfect char.
It's incredibly versatile, delicious served over rice, in wraps, or even in poke bowls..
Pro Tip: This versatile miso marinade is also fantastic on steak, fish, or even halloumi slices.
Get the Recipe: Miso Grilled Chicken
Spicy Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad
This salad is a flavor-packed fiesta in a bowl! Juicy grilled chicken with a warm, Southwest-inspired marinade sits atop a bed of fresh greens, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado.
Drizzled with a spicy ranch dressing, it's a filling and vibrant meal that rivals your favorite takeout..
Pro Tip: For an extra crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips or strips right before serving.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad
Grilled Margarita Chicken
Capture the essence of a refreshing margarita in this zesty grilled chicken dish.
Tequila, lime, and orange juice form a bright marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, enhanced by a touch of spice from jalapeños.
It’s a fun, festive, and incredibly tasty way to enjoy grilled chicken..
Pro Tip: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño before mincing.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Margarita Chicken
Ranch Grilled Chicken Wraps
These grilled chicken wraps are the ultimate quick and easy summer meal.
Tender chicken, seasoned with a smoky-sweet blend, is wrapped in soft tortillas with crisp lettuce, cheese, and a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing.
They’re perfect for a grab-and-go lunch, picnic, or a light dinner..
Pro Tip: For wraps that hold up well for lunchboxes, wrap them tightly in foil after assembly.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Grilled Chicken Wraps
Chipotle Grilled Chicken Tacos
Bring on the smoky heat with these chipotle grilled chicken tacos! Chicken thighs are marinated in a bold chipotle adobo sauce, then grilled to perfection and served in warm tortillas with grilled pineapple, pico de gallo, and creamy avocado.
It's a flavor-packed fiesta that’s perfect for summer grilling..
Pro Tip: Prep the chipotle marinade at home and store it with the chicken in your cooler for easy grilling at your campsite.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken Tacos
Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
Discover the secret to incredibly tender and juicy grilled chicken: a yogurt marinade! The natural enzymes in yogurt tenderize the chicken, while spices like turmeric and honey add warmth and a hint of sweetness.
This simple marinade results in succulent, flavorful chicken perfect for any summer cookout..
Pro Tip: For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight, but even an hour will make a noticeable difference in tenderness.
Get the Recipe: Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
Korean Kimchi Chicken
Get a taste of Korea with this flavorful kimchi chicken! Chicken thighs are marinated in a punchy blend of kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, and ginger, then grilled and basted with a rich, caramelizing sauce.
It's an exciting departure from typical grilled chicken, offering a fantastic sweet, spicy, and savory profile..
Pro Tip: Cook chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 170-175°F for the most tender results, as this helps break down connective tissues.
Get the Recipe: Korean Kimchi Chicken
Honey Garlic Chicken & Potato Foil Packets
These honey garlic chicken and potato foil packets are the ultimate fuss-free meal, perfect for the grill, campfire, or oven.
Tender chicken and potatoes are coated in a sweet and savory honey-garlic marinade, creating a steamy, flavorful, all-in-one dish that minimizes cleanup..
Pro Tip: Use two layers of foil and ensure the edges are well-folded to prevent any marinade from leaking out during cooking.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken & Potato Foil Packets
Basil Pesto Grilled Chicken Thighs
Bright, herbaceous, and utterly delicious, these basil pesto grilled chicken thighs are a summer dream.
Marinated in a vibrant homemade basil pesto, they become incredibly tender and juicy with a perfectly crisped skin.
It's a simple yet elegant dish that highlights fresh, quality ingredients..
Pro Tip: Using homemade pesto often yields a more vibrant and balanced flavor compared to store-bought versions.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto Grilled Chicken Thighs
Achiote Chicken Tacos with Chipotle Sauce
Taco Tuesday gets a vibrant upgrade with these Achiote Chicken Tacos.
Tender chicken marinated in a flavorful achiote paste blend, then grilled to perfection, is nestled into warm tortillas and topped with a smoky, creamy chipotle sauce.
It’s a fiesta of colors and tastes, perfect for a lively meal that’s both easy and impressive..
Pro Tip: Grill your tortillas for a few seconds on each side before filling to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Achiote Chicken Tacos with Chipotle Sauce
Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Transport your taste buds to Thailand with these incredibly flavorful chicken skewers.
Marinated in a creamy blend of coconut, ginger, garlic, and soy, then grilled for a perfect smoky char, these skewers are tender, juicy, and infused with exotic notes.
Served with a simple, addictive peanut satay sauce, they’re ideal for appetizers or a complete meal..
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Juicy Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready for drumsticks that are bursting with bright, zesty flavors! A simple marinade featuring tequila, fresh lime juice, and a hint of smoky chipotle creates incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken.
These drumsticks are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next barbecue..
Pro Tip: Serve with Spanish rice or a refreshing citrus margarita to perfectly complement the tequila-lime flavors.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings
Forget the deep fryer! These grilled chicken wings are unbelievably crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, requiring just four simple ingredients.
Cooked over low heat and turned frequently, they achieve a perfect golden-brown finish.
Slather them in your favorite BBQ sauce or enjoy them with a classic salt and pepper seasoning..
Pro Tip: Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking and increase the heat slightly to help it caramelize beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings
Beer Can Chicken
This iconic grilling method results in incredibly moist and flavorful whole chicken.
The secret is a can of beer (or other beverage) nestled in the cavity, creating steam that cooks the chicken evenly from the inside out.
Seasoned with a delicious blend of spices, this 'drunk chicken' is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to achieve..
Pro Tip: Make a flavorful basting spray by mixing half the beer with apple juice, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to keep the chicken moist and add flavor.
Get the Recipe: Beer Can Chicken
Dry Rub Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
These chicken wings are a flavor explosion with a zesty lemon pepper dry rub that’s both savory and perfectly spiced.
The beauty of a dry rub is the intense flavor it imparts without any added moisture, leading to wonderfully crisp wings.
A hint of ancho chili adds a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the citrusy spice..
Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish and extra zest.
Get the Recipe: Dry Rub Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious, these grilled honey mustard chicken drumsticks are a weeknight winner.
Marinated in a delightful combination of honey, Dijon, and stone-ground mustard with a touch of fresh rosemary, the chicken is grilled to a perfect crisp.
They’re simple enough for a quick dinner but flavorful enough for guests..
Pro Tip: Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer, keeping the skin wonderfully crispy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks
Grilled Moroccan Chicken Skewers
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Morocco with these vibrant chicken skewers.
Featuring a simple yet impactful Moroccan spice blend, tender chicken, and sweet blistered cherry tomatoes and red onion, these skewers are quick to assemble and cook up in under 30 minutes.
They're perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a colorful BBQ side..
Pro Tip: Drizzle with a tangy mint yogurt sauce or serve over fragrant basmati rice with tabbouleh for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Moroccan Chicken Skewers
Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Garlic Mayo
Elevate your chicken sandwich game with this simple yet sensational recipe.
Perfectly grilled chicken breasts are paired with soft rolls and a luscious homemade garlic Parmesan mayonnaise.
It’s a refreshing and flavorful meal that’s ideal for a picnic, backyard gathering, or just a satisfying weeknight dinner..
Pro Tip: Serve with chips and homemade coleslaw for a complete and classic picnic meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Garlic Mayo
Vietnamese Grilled Chicken with Kaffir Lime
Savor the unique and delightful taste of Vietnam with this succulent grilled chicken.
Infused with the citrusy aroma of kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, and a touch of chili, this chicken is both tangy and subtly sweet.
It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic option for various dietary needs and a flavor-packed meal on or off the grill..
Pro Tip: For a lower-sodium version, substitute half of the fish sauce with lemon juice to maintain that essential tanginess.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Grilled Chicken with Kaffir Lime
Caesar Marinated Grilled Chicken
Give your chicken a flavor makeover with this inspired Caesar marinade! A homemade Caesar dressing forms the base for a tangy, garlicky, and savory marinade that transforms plain chicken breasts into something truly special.
Packed with parmesan and zesty capers, this chicken is perfect for grilling and incredibly versatile..
Pro Tip: Drain off any excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups and ensure a cleaner sear.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Marinated Grilled Chicken
Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets with Tzatziki
A truly unique and delicious way to grill chicken! Ground chicken is seasoned and stuffed right into pita pockets before hitting the grill, resulting in a crispy pita exterior and a juicy chicken burger inside.
Topped with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, these Mediterranean-inspired pockets are a protein-packed flavor sensation..
Pro Tip: Stuff the pita pockets just before grilling to prevent the pita from becoming soggy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets with Tzatziki
Foil Packet Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Veggies
For a dinner that's big on flavor and minimal on cleanup, look no further than these foil packet chicken and veggies.
Chicken breast and your favorite vegetables are seasoned with a delectable garlic parmesan sauce and grilled to perfection inside a convenient foil packet.
It’s a foolproof way to create a delicious, healthy meal..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or corn to customize your foil packet meal.
Get the Recipe: Foil Packet Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Veggies
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Kebabs
Taste the islands with these sweet and tangy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Kebabs.
Chunks of chicken are marinated in a signature huli huli sauce, then grilled alongside pineapple, bell peppers, and onions for a tropical explosion of flavor.
They’re a vibrant and easy dish perfect for any summer barbecue..
Pro Tip: Make the huli huli sauce up to two weeks ahead of time for even easier grilling.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Kebabs
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Get ready for a flavor fiesta! This chipotle lime grilled chicken offers a tantalizing mix of sweet, spicy, and smoky notes.
The tender chicken is perfectly complemented by a vibrant, fresh mango salsa, creating a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or in tacos..
Pro Tip: Serve this zesty chicken over coconut rice for a delightful tropical twist.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Tahini Marinated Grilled Chicken with Cucumber Salad
This tahini-marinated grilled chicken offers a wonderfully creamy and savory flavor with a hint of spice.
It's perfectly complemented by a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed in a light rice vinegar dressing.
The combination is a delightful dance of textures and tastes, making for a satisfying meal..
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, serve with warm naan bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Get the Recipe: Tahini Marinated Grilled Chicken with Cucumber Salad
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple
Bring a taste of the tropics to your backyard with these sweet and tangy teriyaki chicken kabobs.
Featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crisp veggies, these skewers are marinated in a quick homemade teriyaki sauce.
They're perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual summer party..
Pro Tip: Prep the kabobs the night before by marinating the chicken and assembling the skewers for even more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Light Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this innovative grilled chicken Caesar salad.
Not only is the chicken grilled to smoky perfection, but the romaine lettuce and croutons are too, adding a unique depth of flavor.
The creamy, lightened-up dressing keeps it fresh and delicious..
Pro Tip: For an extra smoky flavor on gas grills, try using a foil packet with wood chips.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Light Dressing
Chicken Pineapple Bacon Kabobs
These chicken, pineapple, and bacon kabobs are a surefire summer hit, combining savory bacon, tender chicken, and sweet pineapple on a stick.
They're incredibly easy to make and require no marinating, making them perfect for busy cooks.
Get ready for a flavor explosion!.
Pro Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pineapple Bacon Kabobs
Greek-Style Grilled Peach and Chicken Kebabs
Capture the essence of summer with these delightful grilled peach and chicken kebabs.
The sweetness of grilled peaches pairs beautifully with succulent, herb-marinated chicken.
It's a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a patio dinner, especially when served with a side of tzatziki..
Pro Tip: For maximum juicy kebabs, let them rest for about 10 minutes after grilling before serving.
Get the Recipe: Greek-Style Grilled Peach and Chicken Kebabs